Changes in Self-Efficacy During COVID-19 Among Adolescents With Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

Introduction

The purpose of this longitudinal, qualitative study was to examine the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on self-efficacy and diabetes management among youth diagnosed with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM).

Methods

We conducted two semi-structured interviews with adolescents diagnosed with T1DM (n = 18) and their maternal caregivers (n = 20) over 6–9 months, to understand how their confidence in the adolescent's ability to manage their diabetes changed during the pandemic. Interviews were transcribed and coded by four raters, establishing inter-reliability.

Results

Four themes emerged: Preventing Adverse Glycemic Events, Useful Glucose Trend Information, Improved Diabetes Management, and Downsides of Technology. Most adolescents (63%) reported increased confidence in their ability to manage diabetes during the pandemic. Over half of these adolescents were already using an insulin pump, and a substantial number (33%) updated their insulin delivery method. Both adolescents and caregivers cited diabetes devices as a factor in their self-efficacy for diabetes management.

Discussion

Findings illustrate the importance of diabetes management in the daily lives of adolescents diagnosed with T1DM, and the potential benefits of diabetes devices during disruptions to care.